Keri Levy brought her 15-year-old miniature pinscher to Briarwood Veterinary Hospital on May 17 to be euthanized “due to his declining health,” an official with the Howell Police Department told PIX11 News in a statement.

“She picked up the collar. And actually paid her bill and received, even, a letter from the veterinary offices stating their condolences on the loss of her pet,” said Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Chief Ross Licitra.

“The animal was suffering with a life threatening illness,” said Licitra.

Levy was refunded the money she paid for the original procedure that was not done.

The Monmouth County SPCA and the Howell Police are investigating for possible charges of theft and animal cruelty. Police are also looking to find out if this had ever happened before at this animal hospital.

The SPCA said the veterinarian and employee involved no longer work at the animal hospital.